Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Undertake comprehensive psychosocial assessments, considering the impact of cystic fibrosis on emotional wellbeing, family functioning, and daily living.

 Demonstrates awareness and is mindful of Local Authority Social Services policies and procedures.

Develop, implement, and review care plans in partnership with patients, families, and the MDT.

Provide ongoing support to patients and families across the disease trajectory and deliver brief psychosocial interventions to support coping, adjustment, and engagement.

To be a source of specialist social work knowledge and skills for medical and support staff where psycho-social and / or safeguarding issues are a significant factor in patient and family care

Responds independently to crises and the needs of the patients in conjunction with medical staff, psychological professionals, and the multi-disciplinary team

Demonstrates knowledge of, and understanding of, the voluntary sector services across the Trust’s geographical area and the wider region covered by the role, so as to be able to signpost and refer to services appropriate to individuals’ needs.

Regularly support individuals and families who are coming to terms with the trauma of diagnosis and managing a lifelong illness.

Ability to undertake difficult conversations with people who may be experiencing high levels of psychological distress and/or complex mental health difficulties.

Family and Lifespan Working

Work effectively with children, young people, adults, and families, adapting approaches to developmental and individual needs.

Support parents and carers in managing the impact of cystic fibrosis on family life and contribute to planning and supporting transition from paediatric to adult services.

Advocacy and Practical Support

Provide information, advice, and practical support relating to welfare benefits, financial hardship, housing needs, accommodation issues, education, and employment. Advocate on behalf of patients and families with statutory services, healthcare providers, and voluntary organisations.

To apply or support patient applications to charities  for financial assistance/ welfare grants for those in need

MDT and Partnership Working

Work as an active member of the cystic fibrosis MDT and attend outpatient clinics, ward rounds, and MDT meetings. Liaise with professionals in local authority services, community teams, and outlying or non-specialist services to promote continuity of care.

Safeguarding and Risk Management

Identify safeguarding concerns in line with statutory guidance and local procedures. Undertake risk assessments, contribute to safeguarding plans, and work collaboratively with safeguarding partners.

To liaise closely with the  child and adult  safeguarding teams and external safeguarding agencies on behalf of patients and their families whilst taking due account of issues such as confidentiality, dignity and respect, and maintain an anti-discriminatory practice  by alerting the CF teams of any personal, social, cultural, family issues that may have medical implications.

Community and Outreach Working

Undertake home visits and community-based work where appropriate and support patients who may find it difficult to engage with hospital-based services.

Develop positive working relationships with other organisations, including the CF trust, other CF hospital centres, and third-sector organisations.

Professional Responsibilities

Maintain registration with Social Work England and adhere to professional standards. Participate in supervision, appraisal, and continuing professional development.

Keep up to date with trust training requirements and social work research/training

Is professionally accountable for all aspects of work according to professional code of conduct.

Demonstrates awareness and good working knowledge of statutory legislation and practice guidance applicable to children and adults.

To attend and participate actively in all mandatory meetings

Delivers education and training on psychosocial issues and wider determinants of health, and the role of the social worker, to all members of the MDT

To maintain accurate records of all discussions, contacts and communications with patients and those involved with their care.

To undertake any other relevant duties as agreed with the line manager.

This post requires the post holder to work with either children or Adults from a vulnerable community in a wide variety of settings

Ensure all child protection, adult safeguarding, Mental Capacity Act issues are responded to according to policy and procedure.

Service Development and Quality Improvement

Contribute to audit, evaluation, and service development initiatives and support student placements where appropriate.